I Love Texas—But These 5 Places Are a Hard ‘No’ for Me

I'm a lifelong Texan who loves our great state, but that doesn't mean I love everything about it. There are certainly some overhyped destinations Texas that either look better in photos or simply don't deserve the level of popularity they have. These are my top five picks; some of them might surprise you!

1. Lost Maples State Natural Area, Vanderpool

This is a classic case of “Instagram vs. reality.” Thanks to heavily enhanced photos online, I had much higher expectations for Lost Maples State Natural Area (in the fall, at least). Perhaps I wasn’t thinking logically — this is Texas, after all, not New England — but my optimism won out. Instead of the incredibly vivid fall colors you’ve likely seen, this is more in line with what Lost Maples actually looks like during autumn. Pretty? Sure. Spectacular? Not exactly, although it’s probably the best fall foliage you’ll find in the Lone Star State. With that being said, I still love Lost Maples! It’s a lovely place to escape and commune with nature, and the trees are gorgeous. (And the fresh apple pie from nearby Love Creek Orchards thoroughly made up for the subpar scenery. 10/10 recommend.)

2. Galveston (the beach, anyway)

I don’t think a single Texan will fight me on this one. Galveston’s beaches are kind of a running joke — between the murky, brown water, scratchy seaweed, and sand that’s more like mud, not much about them is appealing. Sure, many of us who call Southeast Texas home still go during the summer, but it’s out of convenience rather than genuine desire. (Although personally, I wouldn’t touch that water with a 10-foot pole.) But Galveston slander this is not. I love visiting the island for its other attractions, such as Moody Gardens and the historic Strand. And I’ll never say no to a sunset stroll along the seawall. 

3. Fredericksburg

Before social media, Fredericksburg was precisely what the headlines make it out to be: a quaint Austin suburb with rolling vineyards, rich German heritage, and a slow-paced lifestyle that feels like a breath of fresh air. The rolling vineyards and German heritage still very much exist, but Fredericksburg has become somewhat of a tourist trap in recent years. Due to its location in the heart of Texas Wine Country, the city attracts bachelorette parties and other groups, making the atmosphere more rowdy than peaceful. But Fredericksburg still has its charms. The holiday festivities are pretty spectacular, and the mom-and-pop shops and restaurants in the town square will always warm my heart — even if the sidewalks feel like busy highways sometimes. 

4. The Alamo

I know what you're thinking, but hear me out for a second. The Alamo has become a bit too commercialized for my liking; it seems more like a tourist attraction than an integral part of Texas history. I still think it's a good place to visit with kids, but I prefer the other missions in San Antonio much more. They feel much more authentic to me (and they're less crowded, which is a huge plus).

5. McKinney Falls State Park, Austin

I don't necessarily have anything bad to say about McKinney Falls State Park; I just don't think it should be as popular as it is. "Meh" is the word that comes to mind when I think about my (one and only) visit here. The waterfalls are the main draw, but they're quite small and look much better in pictures. And the hiking trails are just okay, in my opinion. There are many better (and far less busy) places to hike in the Hill Country, such as Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.

Do you agree with my picks? Are there any other overhyped destinations in Texas that visitors should skip? What places would you recommend instead?

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.